Big Gills - Small Baits
By, Dave Hraychuck
Now that the game fish tip ups have been put away for another season, it’s time to go for the big gills! Pay attention to the ice, it will tell you when the season is over and it’s time to get the boats ready! A recent heavy snow in northwestern Wisconsin has affected the ice, covering it with a wet, slushy blanket, changing fish movement, weed growth, dying weeds, and feeding patterns.
A lot of lakes in the north seem to have large populations of small blue gills. One of the best ways to catch a mess of “fish fry” gills and the bigger “bull” blue gills is small baits, split shot, light line, and a very sensitive jig rod.
Small baits, usually size 10 and smaller, work the best. Customs jigs and spins, rat finkees, two spots, and rockers are tried and true baits. Fluorescent green, chartreuse and black seem to work the best. Tip it with a waxie or spike for best results! Split shot size varies as to the depth of water you are fishing.
Let your bait sink to the bottom and compensate for the distance between the split shot and bait, then experiment by jigging rapidly, then slowly, or by keeping it still. The bigger gills always seem to be below the schools of smaller fish.
When it comes to line, a cold weather monofilament in 3 pound test will hold most pan fish and won’t break if it gets stuck on ice chips near the top of your ice hole.
When choosing a rod, one with a very sensitive tip on a spring bobber is most effective. You will barely notice it when the big blue gills hit! As they suck your bait in, you will notice the smallest twitch of your rod. Set the hook and you are on your way to a nice batch of good-eating winter blue gills!
Contact Wisconsin Licensed Guide Dave Hraychuck for hunting and fishing opportunities in Polk County at hraychuck@centurytel.net, 715-485-3362 or (cell) 715553-0578. For information or entertainment opportunities in Polk County for the entire family, Sue Mathews, Director of the Polk County Information Center at www.polkcountytourism.com or call 1-800-222-Polk.
Happy fishing!